Far right and counter-rally to descend on Newcastle city centre this weekend

This Saturday, 27^th September, proponents of the far right plan to converge in Newcastle to support the launch of the Reform UK breakaway party, Advance UK.

The demonstration will proceed despite cancellation of the launch event by the council-owned hotel, The Crowne Plaza, where the event was to be held.

UKIP leader Nick Tenconi has posted on X, urging followers to “take your city back!” and Advance UK leader Ben Habib has insisted the event will occur despite opposition from “extreme far-left activists.”

This demonstration follows the ‘Unite the Kingdom’ march that took place in London earlier this month.

Newcastle University has warned students about the planned disruption and increased police presence expected over the weekend via email. The protests will run from 11:00am to 15:00pm and the affected areas will likely include the Quayside and Monument.

In an official statement, Candy Rowe, Newcastle University Dean for Culture and Inclusion, said:

“While we uphold the right to lawful freedom of speech and open debate, there is no place for racism, harassment, abuse, or incitement within our community.”

Similarly, Kim McGuinness, Mayor of the North East, posted on X:

“We won’t be fooled by Tommy Robinson. He simply does not belong here.”

A counter‐march and a unity rally have also been organised for the same day, intended to oppose racism.

Remember

If you are intending to travel into the city this weekend, to take part in counter-protests or otherwise, be mindful you may be entering a politically charged environment.

In case of emergency, or if you feel threatened, call 999.

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If you feel threatened on Newcastle University campus, the campus security team is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and can be contacted on 0191 2086817. The Safe Zone App can also be used to report an emergency whilst on campus.

Reporting hate crime

Hate crime has been defined by the Crown Prosecution Service and police as:

“Any criminal offence which is perceived by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice, based on a person’s disability or perceived disability; race or perceived race; or religion or perceived religion; or sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation or transgender identity or perceived transgender identity.”

This includes verbal abuse, harassment and intimidation.

If you are victim of a hate crime, or witness a hate crime, it can be reported by:

• Calling 101 or going to your nearest police station.
• Filling out this form (for hate crimes committed in the North East).
• Reporting to Stop Hate UK, an independent anti-hate, anti-discrimination organisation, through their online form or by calling 0800 138 1625, or texting 07717989025.
• Hate crimes can also be reported directly to the university by filling out this form.

Featured images via @standuptoracismnortheast